Group eyes digital technology to transform mining in Nigeria

A group, Ziva Community Initiative, has called for the adoption of digital technology and the incorporation of artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) to transform mining practices in Nigeria.

The group made the call at a town hall meeting which held in Nasarawa on Thursday.

Sunday Kpalo, a lecturer with the Faculty of Environmental Science Geography Department, Nasarawa State University, who delivered the keynote address, emphasised the need for stakeholders to work together to promote sustainable mining practices, highlighting the potentials of digital technologies in transforming the mining industry

The lecturer highlighted Nasarawa State’s potential for mining energy transition minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite, which are crucial for renewable energy technologies.

He said, “Responsible mining practices can generate economic benefits, including revenue, employment, and infrastructure development, while minimizing environmental and social risks.”

Kpalo recommended a comprehensive approach, including developing a regulatory framework, conducting environmental and social impact assessments, building technical capacity, promoting community engagement, and encouraging responsible mining practices”

Also speaking, Ahmed Mohammed, representing the traditional leader from Nasarawa LGA, said: “The government will only recognise and support artisanal and small-scale miners if they obtain the necessary mining licenses and ensure that they have the consent of landowners.”

Participants at the meeting stressed the role of ASMs in energy transition and climate change mitigation in Nigeria. They urged incorporating ASMs into the system, noting it will help promote responsible mining practices and reduce the environmental and social risks associated with artisanal mining.

They also called for the establishment of mineral processing hubs to enhance value-addition and reduce reliance on raw mineral exports to promote economic development and reduce the country’s reliance on imported minerals.

Participants also agreed that fostering industry collaborations will drive transformation of the mining industry as the approach involves promoting partnerships between miners, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable mining practices and ensure the sector contributes to Nigeria’s economic growth and development.

The meeting brought together representatives from the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Miners Association of Nasarawa State and representatives from Kokona and Nasarawa LGAs.